Counterbalance forklift Training
OSHA does require operators utilizing a counterbalanced forklift to have received lecture style or classroom training. They also require that a periodic refresher training in addition to a supervised driving course is finished. There is no minimum time requirement for the supervised driving or classroom training. Moreover, there is no frequency mandated for the refresher training either.
Counterbalanced Forklifts
A counterbalanced forklift balances its load with the truck's weight. The forks on a lift truck are in a fixed position; they go up and down and do not turn. The forks run parallel to the forklift's body. OSHA require that individuals who would be using counterbalanced forklifts on the job be correctly trained on the trucks while being in the kind of setting that they will be utilizing them.
Classroom Training
Training either in a classroom or lecture style would provide lift truck and operator information for the truck you would be operating. Most training will cover several aspects such as the load and weight capacity, height, how to fuel or charge the lift truck. It includes how to gauge the time on the engine along with any forklift specific safety information like where to stand when walking around the truck. Either oral and/or written testing is part of the classroom training. There is no required minimum time for the training.
Supervised Driving
The forklift operator needs to learn how to operate the counterbalanced lift truck while being supervised. The supervised driving has to take place in an area that reflects the environment the driver will be driving in. This atmosphere should include the kind of terrain she will be traveling on, have the same surrounding structures nearby, and the same vehicle and pedestrian traffic nearby too. There is no specific minimum number of hours the operator needs to drive while being supervised.